CBG is one of more than 100 cannabinoids native to the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids are a unique class of active chemical compounds that act on receptors in our cells and alter the release of neurotransmitters in the brain. Cannabigerol, or CBG, can be found in small amounts in both hemp and marijuana.

It is considered a minor cannabinoid because in most cannabis strains it is found in low concentrations, usually less than 1 percent in marijuana and less than 2 percent in hemp. CBG was first discovered and isolated by Israeli scientists Yehiel Gaoni and Ralph Mechoulam in 1964. Years later, Japanese researchers figured out that CBG starts out as CBGA, or cannabigerolic acid, and over time or when exposed to heat is synthesized into an active cannabinoid.

CBG is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid, meaning that when consumed it will not cause any type of euphoric or psycho-active effects like THC. In fact, some early evidence suggests that CBG may be able to suppress THC’s intoxicating effects. Like other cannabinoids, CBG influences the body and its functions by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The ECS is a complex signaling network responsible for keeping many of the body’s functions in balance.When you consume cannabis, the body absorbs CBG as well as the other cannabinoids present. CBG and other cannabinoids have a similar chemical makeup to the body’s naturally synthesized endocannabinoids, allowing them to interact with the endocannabinoid system’s cannabinoid receptors.

Cannabis breeders have started to experiment with genetic manipulation and plant crossbreeding to try and obtain higher yields of CBG. Scientists have found that they can extract higher levels of CBG from budding plants in the form of a CBG oil about six weeks into the eight-week flowering cycle, when CBG levels are highest because it has yet to be converted into other compounds.

Scientists also believe that CBG binds to certain endocannabinoid receptors in the brain that mitigate anxiety and pain. CBG has shown to stimulate bone growth, act as an antibacterial, anti-tumor and combat insomnia. Studies show that CBG may help alleviate inflammation, pain, nausea, proliferation of cancer cells and may significantly reduce intraocular eye pressure caused by glaucoma.

Come by A Healthy Solution Wellness Boutique and check out our new CBG products! Always consult your primary care physician before starting a new treatment.

Our team of specialists are always available to provide you with education and assist you with any questions you may have regarding CBD and CBG.